The Tampa Bay Rays have made a habit of staying in contention year after year, regardless of injuries, payroll limitations, or expectations from the outside world. They epitomize resourcefulness, blending young talent with established pieces in a way that consistently keeps them relevant in the American League playoff picture. As the season barrels toward its finish line, the Rays once again find themselves on the precipice of postseason contention.
This time, the case for them securing an AL Wild Card spot is built not on one area alone, but rather a balanced mix of steady pitching, emerging offensive forces, and a veteran core that knows how to win meaningful games in September. Between a resilient rotation anchored by Drew Rasmussen, Ryan Pepiot, and Zack Littell, and a lineup headli